In the near future, I will be introducing legislation designating the bridge carrying Pennsylvania Route 271 over a tributary of Blacklick Creek in Blacklick Township, Cambria County, as the Martin J. Kupchella Memorial Bridge.

Martin J. Kupchella was born April 14, 1920, in Nanty Glo, Cambria County.  Mr. Kupchella was employed as a coal miner before becoming inducted into the United States Army during World War II.  During his time with the Army, Mr. Kupchella saw action in Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, Ardennes, Northern Apennines and Central Europe.  On December 17, 1944, near Honengen, Belgium, Mr. Kupchella volunteered to act as leader on a towed anti-tank gun while under enemy fire and, when his platoon leader was wounded, he ran into an open field to free a bogged-down vehicle so that he could get the platoon leader to safety.  Mr. Kupchella's actions, courage, initiative and devotion to duty during that battle earned him the Silver Star Medal, which is the United States Armed Forces' third highest military decoration for valor in combat.  Mr. Kupchella was also awarded the Good Conduct Medal, the European African Middle Eastern Service Medal and six Bronze Star Medals for his service during World War II.  Upon returning home to Nanty Glo after the war, Mr. Kupchella became active in his community as a member of VFW Post 3489, Holy Name Society, American Legion Post 619 and Coal Country Auto Club and as a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 522 in Ebensburg.  Mr. Kupchella passed away January 5, 2000, at 79 years of age.

Please join me in sponsoring this important legislation, honoring the service of Martin J. Kupchella.